Effects of different legume species as green manure on the yield of chinese cabbage (Pakchoi) (revised)

Abstract

Seven different legume species VIZ: sanke bean (SNB), gutpela cowpea (GTC), velvet bean (VEB), sunnhemp (SUN), common cowpea (CMC), sesbania (SES), and wing bean (WGB) were evaluated as green manure crops on the yields of pakchoi (Chinese Cabbage). Fresh organic matter yield (FOMY) in the same observation excluding the WGB showed (CMC) to be highest while the lowest was observed in SNB. The yield of the succeeding pakchoi crop when planted on these respective beds, showed VEL to be superior followed by SUN, SES GTC, CMC SNB and WGB respectively.Statistical analysis showed insignificant effect (P>0.05) between legume species, however, velvet bean seemed to be the best green manure crop in this observation. Although no soil tests were done to confirm the levels of nutrients, particularly nitrogen provided by respective legumes, a good crop of pakchoi is an indication of the contribution of these legumes to soil fertility.